Dirt bike recommendations? [Archive]

bosslady

16th May 2013, 07:21

Yea I am sure it's been done before, I did have a look through the past 5 pages of threads. Anyway, I was thinking of getting a motard to replace my GN but have considered perhaps it isn't the best decision considering I do a fair bit of travelling/touring. Now, I have yet to try dirt biking, trying to find a (not super expensive) way that I can get a "taste" for it. That said, I am fairly confident I will definitely want to do it after I try it, do like to challenge myself... So, I would like dirt bike recommendations please. I know sweet f all about dirt bikes FYI. As a first dirt bike, I don't really care if it's not super flash as long as it is reliable and, fun! There's not much self maintenance I can do on a bike at the moment apart from stuff like changing oil so I don't want anything that will be too much work. I would be looking to basically spend the least amount of $ possible, say, up to $2.5-3k? Thoughts?

Edbear

16th May 2013, 07:48

bosslady

16th May 2013, 07:59

The world's your oyster here. Any Jap 250 four stroke will be pretty much bulletproof, although Forza may be a viable alternative if you contact Cave Weta and want a newer bike.

I wouldn't want to spend much, especially for a dirt bike, would rather spend more on a road bike. Can you recommend any model names? What's Cave Weta?

Edbear

16th May 2013, 08:07

I wouldn't want to spend much, especially for a dirt bike, would rather spend more on a road bike. Can you recommend any model names? What's Cave Weta?

He's a KB Member who runs a trail-ride business from Waihi and sells the Forza range of bikes. The most popular seems to be the 230.

Otherwise I'd recommend TradeMe for the four main Jappas.

nzspokes

16th May 2013, 08:18

Go to the Sandpit at Woodhill and do a hire. then you can try a few bikes out and see if you like it.

BM-GS

16th May 2013, 08:23

Edbear says right, but it's all down to things like if you need to ride the bike from home to the bit of dirt you want to tear up (so it has to be road-legal), if seat-height may be a problem, stuff like that.

Honda CRF230F comes in can-be-made-road-legal form and will offer you 15 friendly bhp in a full-size bike which with decent TLC will last decades. It won't excite you for very long as you'll get good enough to want more power and less weight after a while, but it will start first time forever, needing only post-ride air-filter cleaning, regular oil changes and a new plug every birthday. There's a 150F as well which offers the same in 3/4 size, but possibly not road-legal-able.

The DRZ family are Suzuki's equivalent model, the TTRs are Yamaha's. Air-cooled, budget suspension & brakes, comfy (relatively) seats. Kawasaki don't do anything similar any more, but up til about 2007 did KDX200 2-stroke (highly rated as fun, simple and good enough) and KLX300 4T which was heavier.

The Forzas are a Chinese-built, Western-designed & spec'd family which aren;t half bad if you can live with a few odd design characteristics like keys under the tank and the uncertainty of an unproven (for another 10 years, probably) bike. I had a ride on one a year or so ago and it was better than me! Which isn't saying much, but it didn't break and went well enough. Not heard of any problems at all with the bikes, but Cave Weta seems to have vanished from these forums. Any news anyone?

For your budget, you could get an old ('05-ish) example of any of the above or a new Forza.

Other models from the Japs and nearly anything from KTM are higher-strung, higher-tech and essentially racebikes. If you could afford to buy it you probably couldn't afford to fix it.

If you look around the trailrides (like the one at South Head on Sunday) they sometimes have a dealer turn up with a load of bikes to try, for a small fee. Might be worth a go?

ktm84mxc

16th May 2013, 09:13

Your choice comes down to what you want it for and does it require a rego/wof.
Are adventure rides in the great plan if so a rego'd bike will be needed, electric start so look ar DRZ250,TTR250,XR250,KLX250 etc. Bikes like Yamahas XT250 great trail bikes but limited off road with short suspension , ground clearance, tires etc.
If no road duties required the selection is huge from 125/150/230/250 four strokes, 125/200 two strokes.

bosslady

16th May 2013, 10:05

How much is that do you know?
Go to the Sandpit at Woodhill and do a hire. then you can try a few bikes out and see if you like it.

I don't think I would want to pay rego and warrant for another bike so I would probably just want a dedicated dirt bike.

bosslady

16th May 2013, 10:08

Blarghhhh so many choices!

Edbear

16th May 2013, 11:04

Blarghhhh so many choices!

Yup!!! Enjoy! :laugh:

clmintie

16th May 2013, 11:12

Botany Honda will have their range of bikes available to test at the Top End Trail ride this Sunday, give them a call for more info...

http://www.botanyhonda.co.nz/

nzspokes

16th May 2013, 11:21

http://www.thesandpit.co.nz/

Gremlin

16th May 2013, 12:04

Botany Honda will have their range of bikes available to test at the Top End Trail ride this Sunday, give them a call for more info...

http://www.botanyhonda.co.nz/
Was going to say, Botany Honda organises Ardmore rides and things I think, and for minimal dollars you can have a quick test of the bike? Failing that, ask a mate if you could have a try, just to see if it's your cup of tea, without committing the dollars to buying a bike etc.

bosslady

16th May 2013, 12:15

http://www.thesandpit.co.nz/ I may be blind but I can't see hire costs for the bikes?

Gremlin

16th May 2013, 12:50

I may be blind but I can't see hire costs for the bikes?
2 secs... under prices > hire

http://www.thesandpit.co.nz/hire-bikes.html

nzspokes

16th May 2013, 13:22

I would say start on the 150 if your riding a Ginny at the moment.

bosslady

16th May 2013, 13:31

I would say start on the 150 if your riding a Ginny at the moment. How many hours is a whole day? Wonder if they do half day hires?

tnarg

16th May 2013, 13:36

PM ktmboy if you want more info on the Sandpit. He runs it and I'm sure would help you out and give you some really decent advice.

nzspokes

16th May 2013, 21:56

PM ktmboy if you want more info on the Sandpit. He runs it and I'm sure would help you out and give you some really decent advice.

Agreed. Good people.

For your first bike dont go for power, 150 may well be enough to start with. Trail bikes are very different to road bikes. There is a lot of skills to learn.

bosslady

16th May 2013, 22:05

Agreed. Good people.

For your first bike dont go for power, 150 may well be enough to start with. Trail bikes are very different to road bikes. There is a lot of skills to learn.

is that what you started on?

nzspokes

16th May 2013, 22:21

is that what you started on?

I started on a 200. Now I have a 200. But a 2 stroke which trys to pull my arms off. My first bike was a XR200 4 stroke with less HP than your ginny. It was still enough to scare me.

sugilite

16th May 2013, 22:40

Ender EnZed

17th May 2013, 01:28

Fuck. You can't go wrong for $20.

Juat have a go and see what you think.

"Odds are high high that you'll think: "Fuck; that was awesome but I don't know where to go next. I'll just shit myself a bunch then go see what can happen next"?

If that's what you come up with then you're winning. Someone will jump in and help you out.

Ender EnZed

17th May 2013, 01:30

I started on a 200. Now I have a 200. But a 2 stroke which trys to pull my arms off. My first bike was a XR200 4 stroke with less HP than your ginny. It was still enough to scare me.

Fuck. I want a go on that.

How much do you really nned to get into bucket racing. For a male?

Ender EnZed

17th May 2013, 01:36

is that what you started on?

You could start on a 250 and be faster than 3/4 guys there. Don't worry too much about your road status just jump on a bike and GO FOR IT. You'll find out soon enough if you overshot the mark.

Kickaha

17th May 2013, 06:27

KDX200, easy to ride and easy to get parts for, for your 2.5-3K you'll get up to an 04 or maybe even later
As a learner dirt bike they're pretty hard to beat

nzspokes

17th May 2013, 06:43

KDX200, easy to ride and easy to get parts for, for your 2.5-3K you'll get up to an 04 or maybe even later
As a learner dirt bike they're pretty hard to beat

I would agree after riding a stock one last weekend. Just make sure its not got a pipe. Or a CRF230.

nzspokes

17th May 2013, 06:58

2 secs... under prices > hire

http://www.thesandpit.co.nz/hire-bikes.html

Thats what what I would do. Chat to Tony up there. Ride the different sizes and he will have some gear. Cheap way to find out what its like and bike size. Half day will be fine as its harder than it looks and very tiring for your first few rides.

I would meet you up there and show you around but I seem to be using the bounce off trees method currently. And Im slow.:baby:

Ocean1

17th May 2013, 07:47

I say no to a 250, I'm backing you to have enough maturity to control your wrist for somthing like this...http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dirt-bikes/auction-591555571.htm
DRZ400. You won't want to be upgrading it within 6 months!

It's not the maturity that's important, it's knowing how not to slide off the back when you tap it a bit, which gives it a bit more, which makes you slide off the back of the seat a bit more...

Also, the DRZ ain't much heavier than most 250s, a little extra work for a male learner, but for a girl that 120Kg is a big ask when it comes to the amount of time a learner spends manhandling a bike around. I've not had much to do with any of the 230 class, but I suspect they probably weigh not much less. Pity the old 175 class has disappeared, they were a damned good compromise, and ideal for the girls. I reckon a dirt bike ideally doesn't weigh more than it's rider, although that's often not easy to achieve.

Oh, and I'm not sure that DRZ has electric start, the early ones didn't.

ktm84mxc

17th May 2013, 09:05

leathel

17th May 2013, 09:34

You are not that heavy, the DRZ400-450 is a hell of a lot of bike per weight, Dirt you will be running a lower gear set so the 230/50 is like a 400 on the road, But you do ride pretty conservatively on the road so a later DRZ with electric start might go OK...but they are dearer than the 250's

I still have a hell of a lot of fun if I jump back on an old XR200, The modern version is the CRF230... a tame down less maintenance version of the CRF250, The CRF250s which if ridden hard can go hard, Keep in the power range flicking through the gears and they are quick! (All the race 4 stroke 250's are pretty much the same) The CRF230 isn't in the same league but its going to last a lot longer engine wise

I have an older XR250 as a play bike ATM and its great fun, wouldn't want to race it on a MX track but a lot of fun can be had on trail rides

The 400/450 water cooled bikes go hard and have enough grunt to go good pace with less gear changes and I love them...... you can pick up speed deceptively fast and get yourself in trouble...especially with your size (I am over 100KG so power to weight will be way different to you)

Water cooled MX bikes are designed to be max power and are higher maintenance, Enduro versions of the same bikes often run different components to give the bike a bit more life

The air cooled engines were designed to last a lot longer

CRF230 will last, not to heavy, you will get a late one for not much coin.... And low maintenance compared to the water cooled versions and one of the few air cooled with electric start as well as kick and should last years.

I had an XR200 for 5 years and did lots of riding and didn't touch the engine except for oil, My brother had one and did all sorts to up the power, cams, piston kits etc and it still handles it well.

The 250's all went fine and just did the clutch on the latest one (easy enough and not to many $$)

2 strokes require more work as well...

I like to stay named brands as they have been doing it for years and are less likley to fail you :)

Edbear

17th May 2013, 09:36

Agreed. Good people.

For your first bike dont go for power, 150 may well be enough to start with. Trail bikes are very different to road bikes. There is a lot of skills to learn.

I had a 1981 XT125 Yamaha back in the 80's. It was a fabulous trail bike for pottering around on and for around town. It would only do about 80km/h on the open road though.

If I was looking for a small trail bike for exploring, it would be perfect. :niceone:

Ocean1

17th May 2013, 16:01

Bike weights have remained constant for over 30 yrs 125's 92-95kgs, 250's 97-102kgs, 450-500's 100-104kgs.
The pre long travel bikes up to 77/78 were up to 5kgs less , alloy frames, water cooling ect has made bugger all in weight reduction.
A 20kg weight penalty is a lot to lift when your under it.

It's important, here to distinguish between competition machines and trail bikes. The DRZ400 is perhaps a little more than your standard trail bike, but not by much. The weights you're talking about are for MX/Enduro machines, though, and while I may be wrong I don't think the OP wants a race bike. Even if she did I'd be suggesting a fair bit of time on a small/medium trail bike first. To learn how to ride a dirt bike she'd probably do better on one of the 125 to 230 sized bikes already mentioned.

And now that I think about it someone in the 'Rapa is considering selling her TS185. Slightly agricultural in the suspension dept but the price is right and she could do worse.

sugilite

17th May 2013, 16:35

And now that I think about it someone in the 'Rapa is considering selling her TS185. Slightly agricultural in the suspension dept but the price is right and she could do worse.

Funny, that was my 1st bike, and after 5 weeks I was giving the poor thing a absolute hiding, was bored with it and went to a xr200. The OP has a veracious appetite for all things motorcycling, I give it 3 months or less before she would be wanting to give the TS the flick and wanting an upgrade.

If it's light dirt/trail with a bit of road riding thrown in, I still think she could handle a DRZ, extra weight n all.
If it's pure dirt bike work, something like a KDX200, as has been mentioned.

buffstar

17th May 2013, 18:15

start out on a 230 any brand will do, they hold their value really well & most of us girls who ride off road started out on one. Stupid to get an overpowered heavy bike - that will ruin it for you before you even start, you will drop the bike & need to pick it up many many times, that is just the nature of the beast when it comes to riding off road & a 230 is heavy enough. If you are used to 2strokes I would recommend a 125 or possibly a 200 - although some of the 200's are pretty vicious with the powerband.
I would suggest going to a trail ride and having a play on a demo or hire bike before committing - but what would I know? :bleh:

good luck with your decision

ktm84mxc

18th May 2013, 10:17

The weights of 230's is up there also around 100kgs when fueled up, a TS185 great as a learner/commuter/trail bike but will need tires,shocks,fork mods for more off road fun.
What we need is PE/IT/KDX 175/200's again simple reliable bikes you can ride/race every weekend and wont cost a fortune.
Had a 1979 PE175N my transport to work and weekend fun machine put 14,000k's on it in 15mths ultra reliable wish I still had it.

Ocean1

18th May 2013, 12:21

The weights of 230's is up there also around 100kgs when fueled up.

Which is why a 125/175 would be better. I'll repeat what I said before, an ideal dirt bike weighs no more than it's rider.

a TS185 great as a learner/commuter/trail bike but will need tires,shocks,fork mods for more off road fun.

Wish I'd known that 35 years ago, I was under the mistaken impression that I was having an absolute blast!

What we need is PE/IT/KDX 175/200's again simple reliable bikes you can ride/race every weekend and wont cost a fortune.
Had a 1979 PE175N my transport to work and weekend fun machine put 14,000k's on it in 15mths ultra reliable wish I still had it.

Yeah, and what's more those +20 year old machines could be ridden at the same speeds that today's crop can. I'm pretty sure the bikes on offer now are not what most people need, they're just what the manufacturers can make the godamn yanks believe is "cutting edge". In fact apart from FI there's been no real improvement for decades.

I've got an RMX250 here going for a very small commercial consideration if you really want a proper bike again.

ktm84mxc

18th May 2013, 13:46

I'll pass on the RMX thx ocean , just ordered parts for my 1984mxc KTM a bike I've had since new to go VMX racing this year on.
Over the years I've owned TS125/185x2, PE175 N&Z,PE250T, DRZ250, KLX & KDX250's all road reged and used for transport and wknd fun. At one stage had so many then married life and kids so just down to 2 KTMs.

bosslady

18th May 2013, 14:43

nzspokes

18th May 2013, 17:10

Well with a dirt bike you have to have a trailer and a car to tow it with. But they are generally cheap to run. As long as you dont hit things.

sugilite

18th May 2013, 17:19

I really just don't know what to do. Sick of my GN. Love the look of motards, freaking awesome. But want something with enough power to keep me happy for a couple of years. Would love to do dirt bikes too cause it's something to do in the weekend that's not a $150 track day all the way in Taupo! if I buy a dirt bike I won't be able to buy a new road bike for AGES. If I buy a motard I'm scared it will be too high maintenance and costly for me and that if I keep dropping it on trail rides etc. I'll then have no road bike until I could get it fixed!

I hear you, hence my suggestion for something like a DRZ400, it can do everything you want. You just need a set of trail tyres and you are good to go for commuting, road rides and trail rides. I'm not talking heavy dirt work here. Bikes like the DRZ are pretty tough and can take a beating. Others say it would be too heavy for you to pick up, but I feel you could, there is a technique to picking up a bike and your tall enough to get the job done. I also feel if you do the right trails, you won't be picking it up much anyways.

Ocean1

18th May 2013, 17:19

I really just don't know what to do. Sick of my GN. Love the look of motards, freaking awesome. But want something with enough power to keep me happy for a couple of years. Would love to do dirt bikes too cause it's something to do in the weekend that's not a $150 track day all the way in Taupo! if I buy a dirt bike I won't be able to buy a new road bike for AGES. If I buy a motard I'm scared it will be too high maintenance and costly for me and that if I keep dropping it on trail rides etc. I'll then have no road bike until I could get it fixed!

Good to see you're focusing on the world's big-picture problems.

There's a few solutions, first, (and arguably the most important) is to learn not to drop a bike you can't afford to fix.

Second, make more money, so you can afford to fix your dirt bike.

Third, make more money, so you can afford to buy a road bike.

Fourth, make more money, so you can afford to fettle your bikes as befits one who's serious about motorbikes.

Fifth, make more money, 'cause y'know, you can never have enough motorbikes.

Or enough sex.

Ocean1

18th May 2013, 17:23

I hear you, hence my suggestion for something like a DRZ400, it can do everything you want. You just need a set of trail tyres and you are good to go for commuting, road rides and trail rides. I'm not talking heavy dirt work here. Bikes like the DRZ are pretty tough and can take a beating. Others say it would be too heavy for you to pick up, but I feel you could, there is a technique to picking up a bike and your tall enough to get the job done. I also feel if you do the right trails, you won't be picking it up much anyways.

Is a good option. Is a good bike. I just think it's too much for a novice in the dirt.

What about keeping the GN and finding a smaller cheaper trail bike, bit of insurance if you break it and a better horse for the course.

sugilite

18th May 2013, 17:38

Is a good option. Is a good bike. I just think it's too much for a novice in the dirt.

What about keeping the GN and finding a smaller cheaper trail bike, bit of insurance if you break it and a better horse for the course.

We are talking about a rider who mere weeks after getting their 1st bike, then started doing track days, multiple track days and is now bored with their bike, understandably. I've see her ride at one of these track days, hence my confidence in her ability to have the discipline on the right dirt trails to handle a DRZ. Getting a bike like a 230 will just condemn a rider like this to boredom within 6 months. It's not often I recommenced throwing someone in the deep end, but in this case, I feel it is the best option. With their finances in view, this rider needs one bike to rule them all. 1/2 measures will not cut it.

Ocean1

18th May 2013, 17:47

1/2 measures will not cut it.

Fair enough. And if you're stuck with a compromise then at least the 400's a very good one.

This'd have to be the best deal I've seen for a while:http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dirt-bikes/auction-593244467.htm

...and a charming snot green, no less.

bosslady

18th May 2013, 18:51

Fair enough. And if you're stuck with a compromise then at least the 400's a very good one.

This'd have to be the best deal I've seen for a while:http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dirt-bikes/auction-593244467.htm

...and a charming snot green, no less.

you'd recommend that over say a drz400? only asking cause I hear about the drz a lot lol. Anyway it would cost a lot to get that bike road legal... maybe another 1k?

noobi

18th May 2013, 19:02

you'd recommend that over say a drz400? only asking cause I hear about the drz a lot lol. Anyway it would cost a lot to get that bike road legal... maybe another 1k?

They are the same bike. Back when Kawasaki and Suzuki were married up, they released a few models which were essentially the same, just a different colour

You only see and hear about DRZs more because they are still being made, I think, whereas the KLX400 was only around during the partnership.

sugilite

18th May 2013, 19:04

you'd recommend that over say a drz400? only asking cause I hear about the drz a lot lol. Anyway it would cost a lot to get that bike road legal... maybe another 1k?
They are actually the same bike. For a couple of years Kawasaki and Suzuki had an agreement where they would simply re-badge each others bikes to fill a niche in their own range.
And heck, that sure is a low km model if those km's are legit!

Doh, 2 mins too late. haha

Ocean1

18th May 2013, 19:04

you'd recommend that over say a drz400? only asking cause I hear about the drz a lot lol. Anyway it would cost a lot to get that bike road legal... maybe another 1k?

It is a DRZ400. The bike was developed as a joint venture between Suzuki and Kawasaki. I'ts basically a Suzuki frame with a Kawasaki engine. A KLX400 is arguably a better option because it has the few tuning extras that the DRZ400E came with but none of the extra mass that was piled on the S, and yet they came road legal. Not sure why that one wouldn't be but it would have come with all of the required equipment, and even if it's somehow gone missing replacing it's not really a big deal. The procedures around actually registering it I don't know much about but I can't imagine it would be difficult, expecially if you leaned on the dealer to help.

You probably need to ride one before you go too much further. Hold on tight.

sugilite

18th May 2013, 19:08

you'd recommend that over say a drz400? only asking cause I hear about the drz a lot lol. Anyway it would cost a lot to get that bike road legal... maybe another 1k?

Prob better to just get a road legal drz, as much as I like the green haha

bosslady

18th May 2013, 19:10

Prob better to just get a road legal drz, as much as I like the green haha

better? why?

sugilite

18th May 2013, 19:21

better? why?
Most likely cheaper, and definitely easier.

Ocean1

18th May 2013, 19:25

Most likely cheaper, and definitely easier.

If that can be made road legal it represents a near new bike at about half price, can't hurt to email the dealer ask...

scott411

18th May 2013, 19:38

It is a DRZ400. The bike was developed as a joint venture between Suzuki and Kawasaki. I'ts basically a Suzuki frame with a Kawasaki engine. A KLX400 is arguably a better option because it has the few tuning extras that the DRZ400E came with but none of the extra mass that was piled on the S, and yet they came road legal. Not sure why that one wouldn't be but it would have come with all of the required equipment, and even if it's somehow gone missing replacing it's not really a big deal. The procedures around actually registering it I don't know much about but I can't imagine it would be difficult, expecially if you leaned on the dealer to help.

You probably need to ride one before you go too much further. Hold on tight.

the DRZ400 was devolped by Suzuki, and just rebadged kawasaki, (along with a number of other models in road, dirt ATV and UTV) the only bike that was joint devolped was the KX250F and RMZ250, where Suzuki was said to design the motor, and kawasaki the frame/suspension, they were manufactured by kawasaki, Suzuki went its own way in 2007 with the rmz250,

The KLX400's that came into NZ came in 2 models, the 04 was not road legal, and the 05 was, but the full horsepower version, (not the steel tank CV carbed full street version) pretty sure that one will be the road legal one as the off road model does not come with the full dash, just a resetable trip meter,

might pay to check the VIN first tho, as the non road legal ones can not be registered for the road,

sugilite

18th May 2013, 19:39

If that can be made road legal it represents a near new bike at about half price, can't hurt to email the dealer ask...
Yes, It sure does look to be a awesome deal. It's just this sentence is making my spidy sense tingle a bit "This has only travelled 683ks on the speedo". Makes me wonder if it was raced or has done time off the speedo. I'm really not sure what the speedo set up is on those, but it just makes me a bit nervous. Superb bike though and a great price.

I'm liking the look of this one as well, looks well set up.
http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dual-purpose/auction-588963757.htm

Ocean1

18th May 2013, 20:02

Yes, It sure does look to be a awesome deal. It's just this sentence is making my spidy sense tingle a bit "This has only travelled 683ks on the speedo". Makes me wonder if it was raced or has done time off the speedo. I'm really not sure what the speedo set up is on those, but it just makes me a bit nervous. Superb bike though and a great price.

Aye, but again it don't cost much to ask.

I'm liking the look of this one as well, looks well set up.
http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dual-purpose/auction-588963757.htm

">3670km on odometer" :laugh:

leathel

19th May 2013, 07:52

Don't get too brand and model fixed, Most of the jap brands will do the job if serviced OK, All can be neglected and have issues.

You could upspec your road bike then sell the GN and start looking for dirt

You cheaper dirt bike to play on as if it needed work you can still have fun on the road.... there are some good deals around

If you are planning to keep doing long road runs the light dirt bikes are not that great, there is always a compromise

There are better buys but I was thinking something like this
http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/tourers/auction-594703980.htm

or with more K's and cheaper but you wont have a matching colour dirt bike :P
http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-590090857.htm

and then a cheaper dirt bike to learn on like this
http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dirt-bikes/auction-578318515.htm

or get a bigger bike if you find you can kick start a 200-250 as they are still cheaper than the electric start versions

1st thing to do is try some dirt riding, try to start a kick start bike...

bosslady

19th May 2013, 10:06

the thing with a dirt only bike I guess, is that it would mean I have to get a tow bar which will be say 300 odd? then a trailer, f knows how much that would cost, but it'd mean that if I crash it, well I still have my road bike. But if I get a bike for both, I'd have to be constantly changing the rims wouldn't I?? and what a pain?!

leathel

19th May 2013, 10:11

yup .... unless you have someone local to go riding with that has a ute or trailer all ready :msn-wink:

Tow bar is no biggy, If you go down that road let me know the make and model of the car and I can probably sort something well priced..... always have some laying around but unlikley to suit you if Murphy's law has its say but the last few have been around $150

Or just sell the car and get a ute :P

bosslady

19th May 2013, 10:14

Ocean1

19th May 2013, 10:29

But if I get a bike for both, I'd have to be constantly changing the rims wouldn't I?? and what a pain?!

No, trail bikes are road legal and work just fine on 18" rear and 21" front tyres. The tyres themselves are always the biggest compromise, but as long as you're not riding in seriously wet off road conditions or pushing lean angles too far on the road you'd be fine. I've always used tyres from the off-road end of the spectrum, because I don't use trail bikes to tour, (knobblies wear MUCH faster), I do use them mostly in the dirt and because I grew up riding on knobblies and I know how to make the most of them. I reckon you'd be better with less agressive tyres given the time you spend on the road.

Generations of kiwis have grown up with trail bikes, there's plenty of them out there. The DRZ400s are probably the most bulletproof of the mid/large bikes, and you get to choose from several models depending on your particular end-use. Worth noting that not only is the DRZ400S, (trail bike version) good on the road but the DRZ400SM, (with 17" wheels and road-optomised suspension and brakes) isn't too shabby off road either. Up to a point.

leathel

19th May 2013, 10:41

I have a ford laser lxi sedan year 2000, not just the tow bar but gotta do the electrics too of course!

electrics are just a 15 min job, I should have plugs etc here as we often have rear cuts come in with them on...... don't have a laser bar ATM but they are easy enough to fit, you wont want a big heavy trailer..... but once you have one if you ever have an issue with the road bike they are handy to have ;)

I store my brothers trailer as he has a ute so I never got around to finishing my trailer build as I just use his... handy things to have :D

ktm84mxc

19th May 2013, 17:31

Trailers are no biggie 400-500 dollars I use a 7x4 galv great workhorse , a specific bike trailer limits you to just bikes or boats/ribs etc.
Add in tie downs and a ramp 150 dollars good to go. Trailer rego and wof 70 dollars a year, you'll spend that total cost on reg/wof for a bike in 2 years.

bosslady

19th May 2013, 17:41

leathel

19th May 2013, 19:30

Hmm I need to have a good think eh. First thing to do is get a lesson and maybe try a half day at woodhill.. then go from there. Quite expensive to hire a bike so I will have to wait a few weeks till i have the money and don't have the kids!

I might have my bike back on the dirt in the next couple of weeks, and I plan to use a mates XR100 as well to teach rose more and take the quad...we could do a cruise through farms with my Nieces as well and is free for you apart from the gas to get down ;)

There will be other newer bikes to, probably a couple of race 450's to scare you as well :D

Will let you know when and where if it happens

There is a maize run this coming weekend in Mercer as well if you want to pop down for a look.

bosslady

19th May 2013, 20:19

I might have my bike back on the dirt in the next couple of weeks, and I plan to use a mates XR100 as well to teach rose more and take the quad...we could do a cruise through farms with my Nieces as well and is free for you apart from the gas to get down ;)

There will be other newer bikes to, probably a couple of race 450's to scare you as well :D

Will let you know when and where if it happens

There is a maize run this coming weekend in Mercer as well if you want to pop down for a look.

will you be going to it? that sounds interesting. My flatmate said getting a motard, dirktbike, whatever basically getting any other lams approved bike is a stupid idea and I should keep my gn until I get my full he didn't scoff at the idea of me getting a dirt bike but he said I can't put it in the garage cause there isn't enough room, lol.

leathel

19th May 2013, 20:43

will you be going to it? that sounds interesting. My flatmate said getting a motard, dirktbike, whatever basically getting any other lams approved bike is a stupid idea and I should keep my gn until I get my full he didn't scoff at the idea of me getting a dirt bike but he said I can't put it in the garage cause there isn't enough room, lol.

Yup I will be going to the maize run, Sunday .... Might take one of the kids for a road ride and stop in for a couple of hours or go down with the whole crew in the Ute....not concrete yet.

Brother in law, Brother and Niece should all be riding .... My bike wont be ready so I wont be.

nzspokes

19th May 2013, 21:16

Yup I will be going to the maize run, Sunday .... Might take one of the kids for a road ride and stop in for a couple of hours or go down with the whole crew in the Ute....not concrete yet.

Brother in law, Brother and Niece should all be riding .... My bike wont be ready so I wont be.

I had thought about that one but my bike probably wont be back together in time. Probably hit the Sandpit the following Friday.

Grashopper

19th May 2013, 21:17

My flatmate said getting a motard, dirktbike, whatever basically getting any other lams approved bike is a stupid idea and I should keep my gn until I get my full he didn't scoff at the idea of me getting a dirt bike but he said I can't put it in the garage cause there isn't enough room, lol.

Hehe, shouldn't there be space in the lounge soon? Take a picture of his face if you say something like that to him please :D

No but seriously, they had bike covers for 20 bucks on oneday the other day. You ca always have the GN parked outside with just the cover on. Should be safe enough up your drive way.

bosslady

19th May 2013, 21:20

Hehe, shouldn't there be space in the lounge soon? Take a picture of his face if you say something like that to him please :D

No but seriously, they had bike covers for 20 bucks on oneday the other day. You ca always have the GN parked outside with just the cover on. Should be safe enough up your drive way.

No for insurance purposes I can't.

Ender EnZed

19th May 2013, 21:54

From personal experience in the matter; the best way to have to fun is to have a bike for the dirt. And consider it quite separately from the day to day life of getting to work and things.

Also, have a a bike to commute on, and ideally it'll be good for a decent amount of fun on the weekends. Or on sealed roads or track days when you're trying to have fun.

This might look like an overall expensive way of doing things but it means you can spend the money in each area when you want to or hold it off when you need to wait.

bosslady

20th May 2013, 20:35

So what's this Forza I hear of and why are their dirt bikes so cheap? My flatmate said no not to get a Forza.

Ocean1

20th May 2013, 21:53

So what's this Forza I hear of and why are their dirt bikes so cheap? My flatmate said no not to get a Forza.

Chinese, sort of copies of Honda's last gen air cooled trail bikes. Supposedly a better build quality and more reliable than the usual Chinese crap. PM caveweta, he imports them and runs a trail riding outfit up that way somewhere. If he's still doing that then I'd say he'd take you for a wee test ride.

leathel

20th May 2013, 21:58

So what's this Forza I hear of and why are their dirt bikes so cheap? My flatmate said no not to get a Forza.

Chinese copy other frames and a copy of Honda engines... Personally I would have a 5-10 year old original than the copy... the Chinese ones generally generally don't have good bearings etc so when they get in the dirt and water blasted they start to clap out....OK for a toy for a short while..... but not so great when they start to clap out

Search for old threads and I bet you a the same few people talking on them...the sellers and there mates.... They could be better now but I wouldn't risk it.

bosslady

21st May 2013, 10:02

BoristheBiter

21st May 2013, 14:24

Chinese copy other frames and a copy of Honda engines... Personally I would have a 5-10 year old original than the copy... the Chinese ones generally generally don't have good bearings etc so when they get in the dirt and water blasted they start to clap out....OK for a toy for a short while..... but not so great when they start to clap out

Search for old threads and I bet you a the same few people talking on them...the sellers and there mates.... They could be better now but I wouldn't risk it.

I would have said that too but i took one of the new ones for a test ride at cavewetas request. (there is a right up around here somewhere)
Must say i was extremely surprised. feels and handles just like a crf230.
with a few tweaks it can run pretty well, shocks are adjustable, and for under half price for anything else out there it is a good deal.

Couldn't say what the bearings are like but you can change them out (not that costly) and you should be greasing them under normal maintenance.
My other half's crf230 had a rusted head bearing, still full of grease, in just over a year so just because you pay more doesn't mean it will last.

BM-GS

21st May 2013, 20:25

I would have said that too but i took one of the new ones for a test ride at cavewetas request. (there is a right up around here somewhere)

There was, cos I wrote it. The whole thread seems to have vanished, along with the contents of Mr Weta's website, though he seems to still be active in the forums. Anyone know what's up?

Biggest gripes I had with the bike were small tank (since enlarged on later models) and the fact that the rhs footpeg wasn't sprung so that it wouldn't foul the kick-start - not that I needed it particularly, as the electric one worked.

nzspokes

21st May 2013, 20:33

I would have said that too but i took one of the new ones for a test ride at cavewetas request. (there is a right up around here somewhere)
Must say i was extremely surprised. feels and handles just like a crf230.
with a few tweaks it can run pretty well, shocks are adjustable, and for under half price for anything else out there it is a good deal.

Couldn't say what the bearings are like but you can change them out (not that costly) and you should be greasing them under normal maintenance.
My other half's crf230 had a rusted head bearing, still full of grease, in just over a year so just because you pay more doesn't mean it will last.

I believe the Forzas are good bikes for the price. As long as you dont think your buying a new Honda/Kawasaki. For a fun learning bike I reckon they would be cool. Better than my 82 XR200. The motor is very standard. I would be into one if had not tripped over my KDX.

I think you would have to go to the importer that sells on TM as it looks like Caveweata has stopped a lot of his business interest. The importer seems to have a solid range of parts to go with them. Somebody was selling a used one on here a while back.

leathel

21st May 2013, 20:38

There was, cos I wrote it. The whole thread seems to have vanished, along with the contents of Mr Weta's website, though he seems to still be active in the forums. Anyone know what's up?

Biggest gripes I had with the bike were small tank (since enlarged on later models) and the fact that the rhs footpeg wasn't sprung so that it wouldn't foul the kick-start - not that I needed it particularly, as the electric one worked.

When I did a google search a couple of old threads were pulled up, what is needed though is a writeup from an older used one.....not a near new one :)

BoristheBiter

21st May 2013, 20:42

Biggest gripes I had with the bike were small tank (since enlarged on later models) and the fact that the rhs footpeg wasn't sprung so that it wouldn't foul the kick-start - not that I needed it particularly, as the electric one worked.

the kick start just got in the way full stop. I would just take it off.

I believe the Forzas are good bikes for the price. As long as you dont think your buying a new Honda/Kawasaki. For a fun learning bike I reckon they would be cool. Better than my 82 XR200. The motor is very standard. I would be into one if had not tripped over my KDX.

I think you would have to go to the importer that sells on TM as it looks like Caveweata has stopped a lot of his business interest. The importer seems to have a solid range of parts to go with them. Somebody was selling a used one on here a while back.

I also remember when the used to say the same bad things about hyundai.
If we had rode it before we got the crf we would have brought one and saved $4k.

nzspokes

21st May 2013, 20:49

the kick start just got in the way full stop. I would just take it off.

I also remember when the used to say the same bad things about hyundai.
If we had rode it before we got the crf we would have brought one and saved $4k.

You may not be old enough to remember but they said the same about Toyota.

nzspokes

21st May 2013, 20:52

Found the one for sale, owner cant ride anymore due to medical issues I believe.

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/155003-2011-Forza-230F-9-hours-on-the-clock!?highlight=nomnomnom

BoristheBiter

22nd May 2013, 08:54

You may not be old enough to remember but they said the same about Toyota.

I still do, over priced pieces of shit that they are.

JimmyC

22nd May 2013, 11:01

Maha

22nd May 2013, 15:40

Found the one for sale, owner cant ride anymore due to medical issues I believe.

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/155003-2011-Forza-230F-9-hours-on-the-clock!?highlight=nomnomnom

Yeah she's sick of it....:laugh:

bosslady

23rd May 2013, 22:13

seems to be lots of yzf250's on tm? any good?

bosslady

23rd May 2013, 22:20

also, is there any benefit at all to a kick start bike?

ktm84mxc

24th May 2013, 08:45

In a side by side comparo the electric leg adds weight by up to 5 kg , starter/battery etc all adds up. For MX it is an issue on the trail not really.
The weights have come down for electric legs but it still adds weight.

ktm84mxc

24th May 2013, 08:55

Yamaha yzf250 wet weight 227 pounds, wrf250 254 pounds wet 013 models though wr has a bigger tank, both off road models only.

bosslady

26th May 2013, 14:46

leathel

26th May 2013, 18:19

there were plenty of bikes dropped at mercer today.... it got a bit rutted up :)

Yup its good fun and if you ever setup a Motard the sliding on dirt with give you valuable experience :)

Ocean1

26th May 2013, 18:35

So I tried a bit of dirt biking today SO MUCH FUN!!! Midget200 let me have a go on her 2013 KTM 200. Was super cool, went around the learners track on Woodhill, only dropped the bike once pretty much soon after I got on it. Yup, I want (need?) a dirt bike now!

Is fun, eh?

A 200EXC I presume? For future reference that's a competition enduro machine, touch under 100kg dry and 'bout 36hp.

bosslady

26th May 2013, 18:43

there were plenty of bikes dropped at mercer today.... it got a bit rutted up :)

Yup its good fun and if you ever setup a Motard the sliding on dirt with give you valuable experience :)
yea it was a blast, so cute, I totally wasted some like 4 year old kids on their bikes too! haha just joking lol.

Is fun, eh?

A 200EXC I presume? For future reference that's a competition enduro machine, touch under 100kg dry and 'bout 36hp.I'm not sure, just asked her via text.

So I thought I might start looking for some cheap gear? secondhand even. What am I looking for? helmet, goggles, gloves, shirt, pants, armor? oh boots too

nzspokes

26th May 2013, 18:52

Boots first. Then the rest.

leathel

26th May 2013, 18:56

Boots first. Then the rest.

+1

I would have all of toe's if I had not been wearing Gumboots while playing on the farm, Brother still lost a toe with boots on but he would have lost a foot without them ;)

Ocean1

26th May 2013, 19:00

So I thought I might start looking for some cheap gear? secondhand even. What am I looking for? helmet, goggles, gloves, shirt, pants, armor? oh boots too

Helmet like this: http://www.torpedo7.co.nz/products/66HLFNNFE/title/661-fenix-mx-helmet

They've got some 661 boots at a good price on that page too.

Glubs are lighter than road items, but they're cheap enough. Work pants and T shirt are Ok to start with. At novice speeds that's probably it, but save up for knee braces and a pressure suit.

nzspokes

26th May 2013, 19:04

Just go see Mr Motorcycles. They will see you right.

And get some Knobbys for for the Ginny. :cool:

gwynfryn

26th May 2013, 19:07

I would rather keep my head than lose a toe! Having said that I would not ride without boots or in fact all the protective gear. I I don't use a neck brace though but have been thinking about one.

bosslady

26th May 2013, 19:45

Is fun, eh?

A 200EXC I presume? For future reference that's a competition enduro machine, touch under 100kg dry and 'bout 36hp.

she said xcw?

bosslady

26th May 2013, 19:48

Helmet like this: http://www.torpedo7.co.nz/products/66HLFNNFE/title/661-fenix-mx-helmet

They've got some 661 boots at a good price on that page too.

Glubs are lighter than road items, but they're cheap enough. Work pants and T shirt are Ok to start with. At novice speeds that's probably it, but save up for knee braces and a pressure suit.

is it a bad idea to start off with 2nd hand gear? even a 2nd hand helmet?

nzspokes

26th May 2013, 20:03

is it a bad idea to start off with 2nd hand gear? even a 2nd hand helmet?

Do you have a second hand head?

My helmet was $90 at Cycletreads.

Ocean1

26th May 2013, 20:05

she said xcw?

OK, same as makes no never mind.

is it a bad idea to start off with 2nd hand gear? even a 2nd hand helmet?

No, as long as it's serviceable and it fits properly. But unless you're buying from your twin sister you'll go through a lot of second hand offerings before you find something in good nick that does fit.

pete-blen

26th May 2013, 20:12

boots..... These are the best boots my feet have been in...
http://www.motomail.co.nz/estore/style/frboadventure.aspx

bosslady

26th May 2013, 20:16

Do you have a second hand head?

My helmet was $90 at Cycletreads.
I always hate when people say shit like that, annoying and unnecessary, what a stupid question, in fact its more of a statement isnt it. I'd never buy a 2nd hand road helmet but I don't know if it's the same for dirt biking HENCE WHY I ASKED. Don't try and make someone feel stupid for asking a question. Rant over. But thanks for letting me know about cycletreads.

OK, same as makes no never mind.

No, as long as it's serviceable and it fits properly. But unless you're buying from your twin sister you'll go through a lot of second hand offerings before you find something in good nick that does fit.

Probably doesn't hurt to buy some pants, boots or shirts 2nd hand eh?

nzspokes

26th May 2013, 20:26

Don't try and make someone feel stupid for asking a question.

Probably doesn't hurt to buy some pants, boots or shirts 2nd hand eh?

You realize this is KB right?

Clothing, pants and amour is ok second hand. Just check the amour out. I may have some arm guards you can have. But boots and helmet get new and to fit you.

Did you wear boots at Woodhill? Wheres the beginner trail?

Ocean1

26th May 2013, 20:27

Probably doesn't hurt to buy some pants, boots or shirts 2nd hand eh?

Can't hurt to keep an eye on TM. I'm sure you know but just be careful with the new cheap stuff, some of it's OK but the majority of it's crap. Boots in particular. Having said that don't expect new boots to feel like sheepskin slippers, they take some severe beating to come right. Everything else should be obvious after you've worn it around the shop for half an hour, which you absolutely should do.

If you see something interesting show us, someone will have some history with most stuff.

nzspokes

26th May 2013, 20:32

Boots in particular. Having said that don't expect new boots to feel like sheepskin slippers, they take some severe beating to come right.

Mine took an age to to break in. Even then they are as stiff as hell. But thats the point of them.

bosslady

26th May 2013, 20:33

You realize this is KB right?

Clothing, pants and amour is ok second hand. Just check the amour out. I may have some arm guards you can have. But boots and helmet get new and to fit you.

Did you wear boots at Woodhill? Wheres the beginner trail?

I know where this is and how some people act, doesn't mean anything to me or excuse some of the behaviour on here.

Anyway what kind of armour is the norm? or recommended rather. I wore my steel cap work boots etc. Learner trail? well when you drive in it's to the left. Got yellow little flags or signs or something, that's the best explanation you'll get from me!

bosslady

26th May 2013, 20:37

Can't hurt to keep an eye on TM. I'm sure you know but just be careful with the new cheap stuff, some of it's OK but the majority of it's crap. Boots in particular. Having said that don't expect new boots to feel like sheepskin slippers, they take some severe beating to come right. Everything else should be obvious after you've worn it around the shop for half an hour, which you absolutely should do.

If you see something interesting show us, someone will have some history with most stuff.

could you recommend several good/common brands? I feel like I'm starting all over again, seems like heaps more or different brands compared to road gear.

Ocean1

26th May 2013, 20:57

could you recommend several good/common brands? I feel like I'm starting all over again, seems like heaps more or different brands compared to road gear.

I tend to use Gaerne or Sidi boots and Airoh or AGV helmets, not cheap but some of the reason is simply that they fit my deformed shape. I don't have much experience with the more reasonably priced stuff I'm afraid. And yes there is more choice with dirt kit, there's a shitload more people riding dirt bikes.

Don't get too carried away, as I said work trou and shirt are just fine, you really only need helmet, goggles boots and glubs to start with. A bike helps. You might have noticed the shirts are light, and so should the trou be, dirt riding is bloody hard work, a novice probably doesn't put in much less effort than a pro because you get it wrong ALL the time and recovering costs energy. That means you get very hot. For that reason I don't wear armour, I tried a 661 pressure suit years ago when they first came out but I just couldn't handle the heat.

Anyway, plenty of others have had different gear, find interesting stuff and ask away.

Edit: rather than sticking with the majority of dirt kit which is MX based and heavy/rigid check out some of the adventure bike based gear, it's a lot more flexible and easier to live with, (those Forma boots up there somewhere are a good example). When you can ride like Catherine Plumm you'll need MX gear.

buffstar

26th May 2013, 21:57

I always hate when people say shit like that, annoying and unnecessary, what a stupid question, in fact its more of a statement isnt it. I'd never buy a 2nd hand road helmet but I don't know if it's the same for dirt biking HENCE WHY I ASKED. Don't try and make someone feel stupid for asking a question. Rant over. But thanks for letting me know about cycletreads.

Probably doesn't hurt to buy some pants, boots or shirts 2nd hand eh?

no difference dirt via road for a helmet chick. Trees are hard when you hit them with your head - better to be safe than sorry. I wouldn't touch a 2nd hand helmet as unless your getting (or borrowing) it off a mate who gives a stuff about your noggin its not worth the risk.
be careful wearing steelies! My dad (road & dirtbiker) was always super anal about them as you can easily amputate your own toes if your foot stops suddenly & the rest of your body dosnt - super easy to do as Im sure you can imagine.
cool that J let you have a tootoo on her KTM!! shes a good stick :) how did you find it for height & weight? I've ridden it once or twice but it is far too lowered for me (the trials of not being a shorty):baby:

bosslady

26th May 2013, 22:02

no difference dirt via road for a helmet chick. Trees are hard when you hit them with your head - better to be safe than sorry. I wouldn't touch a 2nd hand helmet as unless your getting (or borrowing) it off a mate who gives a stuff about your noggin its not worth the risk.
be careful wearing steelies! My dad (road & dirtbiker) was always super anal about them as you can easily amputate your own toes if your foot stops suddenly & the rest of your body dosnt - super easy to do as Im sure you can imagine.
cool that J let you have a tootoo on her KTM!! shes a good stick :) how did you find it for height & weight? I've ridden it once or twice but it is far too lowered for me (the trials of not being a shorty):baby:

I only wore my work boots cause I was just trying the bike to see if I like the dirt before I commit money to anything lol. It was ok I guess! I mean I only have a gn 250 so I'm used to a low bike and I'm not used to the dirt to know what difference the height of a bike makes to things, I never stood up on it anyway so what do I know, hah.

bosslady

27th May 2013, 08:34

leathel

27th May 2013, 08:41

What are the "top" brands in MX gear? Is Alpinestars as popular in MX as it is for road/race gear? I saw a lot of people wear Fox - is that what is popular? Are alpinestars boots any good for dirt biking?

I am not up with the play with off road gear as I am a bit of a bogan when it comes to gear off road, Old chest prtectors (only on group rides) and jeans and T-shirt..

But I did spy a rack of clearance gear (I looked at some road gear for rose, half price for that gear I looked at) at my brothers work... I will get him to check if there is any gear that might suit you.

:)

bosslady

27th May 2013, 08:55

I am not up with the play with off road gear as I am a bit of a bogan when it comes to gear off road, Old chest prtectors (only on group rides) and jeans and T-shirt..

But I did spy a rack of clearance gear (I looked at some road gear for rose, half price for that gear I looked at) at my brothers work... I will get him to check if there is any gear that might suit you.

:)
yes please do :)

buffstar

27th May 2013, 09:05

What are the "top" brands in MX gear? Is Alpinestars as popular in MX as it is for road/race gear? I saw a lot of people wear Fox - is that what is popular? Are alpinestars boots any good for dirt biking?

what sizes are you after? I have some old sets of gear hanging around that I've loaned out to peeps before so they can get the ball rolling so to speak.
Fox seems to be the dominant brand, but there is also Thor (which I think is slightly cheaper) gosh theres heaps!
make sure you get some knee pads!! they will save your bacon many times over & as you get faster/more extreme it would be a really good idea to get some proper knee braces, be warned they are not cheap - but well worth the investement - I am qualified to throw this advice around as I am sitting on week 10 after ACL knee reconstruction & it pretty much fucked everything, let alone the fact I still cant ride my dirtbike for at least another 3-4 weeks (against surgeons advice coz, he can get fucked) :(
I've only heard good things about Alpine boots - some of my mates ride with them & love them lots! I personally go for fox, but beware with the entry level ones as the support is not as good.
armour is pretty much essential - amazing how much a twig in the tit can hurt at speed, but it will not save you when you take on a tree :clap:
goggles are also not cheap but essential - not only to protect your wee eyeballs from roost but a twig in the eye can be disastrous!
just to give you an idea my gear consists of the following

Helmet
Googles
Jersey (fox of course dahhhhling)
neck brace
armour
camel back (great to be able to have a drink when your gasping and munted mid ride)
kidney belt - takes some getting used to & not everyone bothers
gloves
pants (fox again as I like to match :banana:)
knee braces/guards (gunna rock the new braces I bought when I finally get out again)
long socks
boots

oh and a bum bag with tools and spares etc

sooooo quite a lot of expensive shit really! but this has been accumulated over time.....

keep us posted as to how you go, I will have a fossick around in the garage and see if I have anything else to offer later on.

bosslady

27th May 2013, 09:28

what sizes are you after? I have some old sets of gear hanging around that I've loaned out to peeps before so they can get the ball rolling so to speak.
Fox seems to be the dominant brand, but there is also Thor (which I think is slightly cheaper) gosh theres heaps!
make sure you get some knee pads!! they will save your bacon many times over & as you get faster/more extreme it would be a really good idea to get some proper knee braces, be warned they are not cheap - but well worth the investement - I am qualified to throw this advice around as I am sitting on week 10 after ACL knee reconstruction & it pretty much fucked everything, let alone the fact I still cant ride my dirtbike for at least another 3-4 weeks (against surgeons advice coz, he can get fucked) :(
I've only heard good things about Alpine boots - some of my mates ride with them & love them lots! I personally go for fox, but beware with the entry level ones as the support is not as good.
armour is pretty much essential - amazing how much a twig in the tit can hurt at speed, but it will not save you when you take on a tree :clap:
goggles are also not cheap but essential - not only to protect your wee eyeballs from roost but a twig in the eye can be disastrous!
just to give you an idea my gear consists of the following

Helmet
Googles
Jersey (fox of course dahhhhling)
neck brace
armour
camel back (great to be able to have a drink when your gasping and munted mid ride)
kidney belt - takes some getting used to & not everyone bothers
gloves
pants (fox again as I like to match :banana:)
knee braces/guards (gunna rock the new braces I bought when I finally get out again)
long socks
boots

oh and a bum bag with tools and spares etc

sooooo quite a lot of expensive shit really! but this has been accumulated over time.....

keep us posted as to how you go, I will have a fossick around in the garage and see if I have anything else to offer later on.Hey thanks that's a great help! Is there any recommendation in terms of brands for goggles? or anything I should look out for? Also any kind of special socks I should get? I don't know what size I would be looking for but I am a size 10/12 women's. I see ocean already recommended some helmet brands - what are some other common/popular helmets that people use?

bosslady

27th May 2013, 09:37

Tony.OK

27th May 2013, 09:50

Any good? http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dirt-bikes/auction-594381902.htm or actually maybe anything from this list: http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/CategoryAttributeSearchResults.aspx?search=1&cid=1255&sidebar=1&rptpath=0001-0026-&39=Dirt+bikes&40=&153=&9=250&9=0&24=0&24=0&51=0&51=3000&sidebarSearch_keypresses=0&sidebarSearch_suggested=0 I'm thinking if it's not in Auckland I have shit show of being able to pick it up since I'd have to get someone to help me as I don't have a tow bar or trailer set up yet, they won't wanna travel out of town!

How did you find starting the Ktm 200? Think about starting a bike on a slope where you need to balance on one foot.
As a novice/intermediate rider myself I can't recommend an electric starter enough, having trouble or worrying about starting your bike when you are exhausted will ruin your ride, that and you start thinking/worrying about falling off and having to kick the bike over.

bosslady

27th May 2013, 10:13

leathel

27th May 2013, 10:21

How did you find starting the Ktm 200? Think about starting a bike on a slope where you need to balance on one foot.
As a novice/intermediate rider myself I can't recommend an electric starter enough, having trouble or worrying about starting your bike when you are exhausted will ruin your ride, that and you start thinking/worrying about falling off and having to kick the bike over.

a Big +1 on that!

While you have done many k's on the road for balance its a lot different when you are in a dodgy spot and you need to kick the bike over, that looks like a starter on that one but its still a lot of bike

Its a nice bike but while I would recommend a 400 for you for road I cant say the same for dirt

The 250's with the gearing for dirt have plenty of go.. not so great with taller gearing for the road

Some of the 400's are milder and have electric start to negate the dodgy start positions so not saying dont get a 400 full stop.

Tony.OK

27th May 2013, 10:27

Well it's electric and starting it was fine? I would love an electric bike and you have a really good point - I just don't know if I can afford an electric one? they are more expensive?

Yup you have to pay a tad more, but worth it for a good bike, I had an XR400 before and it was a sh*t to start once it had fallen over, very long stroke kick on the old bikes, newer bikes are much better in that department.
I picked up my WR250f for $3.5k, an 06 with buggar all kms on it, if you are patient and prepared to sometimes make a cheeky offer there are bargains to be had haha.

bosslady

27th May 2013, 10:47

Yup you have to pay a tad more, but worth it for a good bike, I had an XR400 before and it was a sh*t to start once it had fallen over, very long stroke kick on the old bikes, newer bikes are much better in that department.
I picked up my WR250f for $3.5k, an 06 with buggar all kms on it, if you are patient and prepared to sometimes make a cheeky offer there are bargains to be had haha. Aww crap, now I'm even more confused. What bikes have electric start? I really can't afford to be spending too much for a first dirt bike. I still would have to get a tow bar, trailer, gear etc. I really wanted to spend between the 2-3k mark.

Midget200

27th May 2013, 11:05

Tony.OK

27th May 2013, 11:32

Darn it, knew there was something I should have got you to do yesterday, start my bike with the kick start! I said I'd never have a kick start, but have had 4 bikes with kick starts. Two strokes are pretty easy to start though, even for someone 5 foot nothing, so don't be put off a kick start, you have the height! First purchases I made were boots and helmet. I wore normal jeans/trousers for ages learning. Go to Cycletreads and talk with Karen and try on helmets, entry level to start with, as well as boots. Gaerne (spelling) and Alpine Stars, are quite expensive. She'll help you for sure!!! With the 230's that people are talking about, they're electric start and reliable and a four stroke. I think that would be a perfect bike, as does Bufstar and Grant who you met the other day! Go you.

+1 on Cycletreads, got a new pair of W2 Italian mx boots for $119, fine for trails.
Yep too on the CRF230, perfectly fine for learning and even see older riders on them, I had a new one years ago and after doing the power up jetting and exhaust mod it was fine for most situations, and bullet proof too, change oil once in a while and keep air filter clean.....job done! And they prob hold their resale value better than alot of the hi tech bikes.
People seem to think ya gotta have lots of power for fun, I ride/raced a 1000cc road bike and the wr250 keeps me entertained on the dirt without getting into trouble like a big bike would.

Ocean1

27th May 2013, 21:11

Well it's electric and starting it was fine? I would love an electric bike and you have a really good point - I just don't know if I can afford an electric one? they are more expensive?

A bit, just because they haven't been common for that long.

I see Buffstar has given you a shopping list :laugh: Sounds like good advice, but you probably don't need armour for the first few rides, you won't be going too fast.

Any good? http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dirt-bikes/auction-594381902.htm or actually maybe anything from this list: http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/CategoryAttributeSearchResults.aspx?search=1&cid=1255&sidebar=1&rptpath=0001-0026-&39=Dirt+bikes&40=&153=&9=250&9=0&24=0&24=0&51=0&51=3000&sidebarSearch_keypresses=0&sidebarSearch_suggested=0 I'm thinking if it's not in Auckland I have shit show of being able to pick it up since I'd have to get someone to help me as I don't have a tow bar or trailer set up yet, they won't wanna travel out of town!

I'd still suggest you consider a road legal machine, it'll be slightly heavier but you don't need the trailer, etc. Two strokes are more powerful, you should be considering them down to 200cc, even less. That KTM400 is hard work to ride and hard work to maintain. Although now that I think about it it's not much worse than that 200 you rode, just a bit heavier, but don't underestimate the physical clout you need to manage those full-house enduro machines.

leathel

28th May 2013, 12:02

I'd still suggest you consider a road legal machine, it'll be slightly heavier but you don't need the trailer, etc. .

But you will be stuck with intermediate tyres and the first years rego on the bike will pay for the trailer..

And if you can borrow a trailer, run good grunty tyres then its much more fun and less hassle sliding around :P

bosslady

28th May 2013, 12:30

A bit, just because they haven't been common for that long.

I see Buffstar has given you a shopping list :laugh: Sounds like good advice, but you probably don't need armour for the first few rides, you won't be going too fast.

I'd still suggest you consider a road legal machine, it'll be slightly heavier but you don't need the trailer, etc. Two strokes are more powerful, you should be considering them down to 200cc, even less. That KTM400 is hard work to ride and hard work to maintain. Although now that I think about it it's not much worse than that 200 you rode, just a bit heavier, but don't underestimate the physical clout you need to manage those full-house enduro machines.
Yea I think I will get the basics, boots, helmet, gloves and goggles(?) then from there armour and clothing etc. Armour's very important but it's also effing expensive and I'd be wanting to do my research on that one and get some real good shit! I have thought about it over and over and I think definitely I don't want to have the same bike that I use on the road to be the same bike that I use on the dirt. It just makes sense to me because if I stuff my bike in the dirt, then I have stuffed my road bike! And because I am trying to save (for said dirt bike and all its gear) I am using my bike to commute at the moment so that fuel costs me more like $16 a week to get to and from work rather than something like $40 and I get to work a little bit quicker too. I think I have decided on a CRF230 based on everyone I have spoken to and some of the advice in this thread. Now, it is just a matter of finding a reasonably (i.e. cheap) priced one that's not stuffed. I also need to sort a tow bar for my car and I have a trailer that I can use indefinitely and that's pretty much free as I only need to maintain warrant and rego on.

Ocean1

28th May 2013, 12:49

But you will be stuck with intermediate tyres and the first years rego on the bike will pay for the trailer..

And if you can borrow a trailer, run good grunty tyres then its much more fun and less hassle sliding around :P

Yeah, but you can easily out-ride full comp knobblies, keeping within the traction limits of your machine is the name of the game, not maximising it. Also, the fastest guy I ride with uses trials tyres on his Husaberg 200, the last time out my 525 had brand new Michelin S12s, and I couldn't touch him.

And how many years rego is requiured to offset the fact that you have just one bike to register and maintain?

Ocean1

28th May 2013, 12:53

Yea I think I will get the basics, boots, helmet, gloves and goggles(?) then from there armour and clothing etc. Armour's very important but it's also effing expensive and I'd be wanting to do my research on that one and get some real good shit! I have thought about it over and over and I think definitely I don't want to have the same bike that I use on the road to be the same bike that I use on the dirt. It just makes sense to me because if I stuff my bike in the dirt, then I have stuffed my road bike! And because I am trying to save (for said dirt bike and all its gear) I am using my bike to commute at the moment so that fuel costs me more like $16 a week to get to and from work rather than something like $40 and I get to work a little bit quicker too. I think I have decided on a CRF230 based on everyone I have spoken to and some of the advice in this thread. Now, it is just a matter of finding a reasonably (i.e. cheap) priced one that's not stuffed. I also need to sort a tow bar for my car and I have a trailer that I can use indefinitely and that's pretty much free as I only need to maintain warrant and rego on.

Fair enough. The Honda is a good machine, it'll take you a while to learn to make full use of it.

Also, any arguement that means more toys is always automatically teh winner.

BoristheBiter

28th May 2013, 13:35

Yea I think I will get the basics, boots, helmet, gloves and goggles(?) then from there armour and clothing etc. Armour's very important but it's also effing expensive and I'd be wanting to do my research on that one and get some real good shit! I have thought about it over and over and I think definitely I don't want to have the same bike that I use on the road to be the same bike that I use on the dirt. It just makes sense to me because if I stuff my bike in the dirt, then I have stuffed my road bike! And because I am trying to save (for said dirt bike and all its gear) I am using my bike to commute at the moment so that fuel costs me more like $16 a week to get to and from work rather than something like $40 and I get to work a little bit quicker too. I think I have decided on a CRF230 based on everyone I have spoken to and some of the advice in this thread. Now, it is just a matter of finding a reasonably (i.e. cheap) priced one that's not stuffed. I also need to sort a tow bar for my car and I have a trailer that I can use indefinitely and that's pretty much free as I only need to maintain warrant and rego on.

You can't go wrong with the 230. a good all round bike. I can still put one around the expert loops so the bike is not lacking.
There is not a lot in the way of maintenance to be done, just the air filter, oil and clean it after a ride and it will last for ages.
Make sure you do have some good tyres on.

Also in regards to a trailer, look at these.
http://www.traxequipment.co.nz/slipstreamer.php
same price if not cheaper than a trailer and you don't have to reg/wof it.

bosslady

28th May 2013, 15:23

You can't go wrong with the 230. a good all round bike. I can still put one around the expert loops so the bike is not lacking.
There is not a lot in the way of maintenance to be done, just the air filter, oil and clean it after a ride and it will last for ages.
Make sure you do have some good tyres on.

Also in regards to a trailer, look at these.
http://www.traxequipment.co.nz/slipstreamer.php
same price if not cheaper than a trailer and you don't have to reg/wof it.
Actually I was looking at them last night and considering I am getting the use of a trailer that's only a few years old for free, it didn't make sense to spend that much on one of those. Also, I don't even know if I could transfer a bike on my tiny sedan?

leathel

28th May 2013, 15:32

Actually I was looking at them last night and considering I am getting the use of a trailer that's only a few years old for free, it didn't make sense to spend that much on one of those. Also, I don't even know if I could transfer a bike on my tiny sedan?

Nup on your car and the load on the tow bar would far exceed the load a trailer would put on it (down force) I think the specs on cars your size is only 50-70 KG max... then there is the problem that it will lighten the load on the front wheels due the the weight hanging over the back wheel and that + getting stuck easier :msn-wink:

If my ute deck was longer one of those would be handy when taking a 2 wheeler and quad.... but the quad hangs over to much..... and I also have the free use of a trailer :lol:

buffstar

28th May 2013, 15:36

Fabulous choice re: the 230 :clap: they may not be the most powerful or the lightest of bikes BUT they will go anywhere, steady & reliable - I freakn loved my 230 & was sad to see it go, I moved on to a 250 after that & it was such a stupid decision, as it was a full on moto bike that I was trying to ride in the tight stuff - many dramas & a big off later I moved onto a 2T - which in turn required a whole new set of skills to ride well.
Im glad I started out on the 230, I cant guarantee I would still be riding at all if not for such a great starter bike. An extra bonus of them is that they do hold their value really really well & are piss easy to maintain.

BoristheBiter

29th May 2013, 08:58

Actually I was looking at them last night and considering I am getting the use of a trailer that's only a few years old for free, it didn't make sense to spend that much on one of those. Also, I don't even know if I could transfer a bike on my tiny sedan?

Well if you are getting use of one for free i wouldn't bother.

I have seen them on some pretty small cars.

Gremlin

29th May 2013, 11:19

I have seen them on some pretty small cars.
I'd also check the tonque weight limit of the tow bar, normally about 10% of the total braked load...

bosslady

29th May 2013, 11:24

I'm inclined to go with what leathel said, I don't think it would be appropriate for my car which is like this one http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/used-cars/ford/auction-589740497.htm and auto. I'd be all over one of those though if I had a bigger car.

leathel

29th May 2013, 12:01

I'd also check the tonque weight limit of the tow bar, normally about 10% of the total braked load...

the towbars I looked at were 750 KG braked, 400 un-braked and 50KG tongue load

and 1000 KG braked and 500 un-braked and 70 KG tongue load

the bike without the brakets well exceeds those but I am not saying the towbar will fall off if you try but over time it may be too much for the tow bar mounts

Gremlin

29th May 2013, 12:21

the bike without the brakets well exceeds those but I am not saying the towbar will fall off if you try but over time it may be too much for the tow bar mounts
Yep, plus the suspension wouldn't be intended to handle that much weight at the rear of the vehicle, steering affected and also axle load.

My tow bar specs don't seem to list a tongue weight, just 10% of the total load of the trailer, 500kg unbraked and 1600kg braked are the limits.

leathel

29th May 2013, 12:27

Yep, plus the suspension wouldn't be intended to handle that much weight at the rear of the vehicle, steering affected and also axle load.

My tow bar specs don't seem to list a tongue weight, just 10% of the total load of the trailer, 500kg unbraked and 1600kg braked are the limits.

The Manufacturers specs for her car have a 500kg max tow and 50kg tongue weight... So she probably shouldn't tow 3 bikes on the trailer either...

It is also relative to how hard you drive too,full throttle take off and hard braking will load the crap out of the coupling :)

BoristheBiter

29th May 2013, 12:28

Yep, plus the suspension wouldn't be intended to handle that much weight at the rear of the vehicle, steering affected and also axle load.

My tow bar specs don't seem to list a tongue weight, just 10% of the total load of the trailer, 500kg unbraked and 1600kg braked are the limits.

and not all tow bars are made to the same specs but i would think the cars suspension could take it.

the car is a five seater, 3 in the back @50 kg each = 150kg. more than any bike.

Gremlin

29th May 2013, 12:54

and not all tow bars are made to the same specs but i would think the cars suspension could take it.

the car is a five seater, 3 in the back @50 kg each = 150kg. more than any bike.
Except the weight is forward of the rear axle (or above). Loading the tow bar puts the weight well past the rear axle which makes the weight distribution very different.

Anyway, well off the "which dirtbike" topic, but useful information nonetheless.

BoristheBiter

29th May 2013, 16:05

Except the weight is forward of the rear axle (or above). Loading the tow bar puts the weight well past the rear axle which makes the weight distribution very different.

Anyway, well off the "which dirtbike" topic, but useful information nonetheless.

can you infract yourself for being off topic?:shifty:

bosslady

29th May 2013, 16:54

Don't worry, I do understand what you boys are talking about re: weight distribution etc. Work in distribution/warehousing, truck, forklift etc. Anyway irrelevant for the moment if I have a trailer to use. What is of more concern would be the fact that I have never driven a car with a trailer :lol:. SO... anyone seen any good crf230's on TM or elsewhere?

bosslady

29th May 2013, 19:08

is there a practical reason as to why dirt bikers wear such brightly coloured clothing?

leathel

29th May 2013, 19:51

is there a practical reason as to why dirt bikers wear such brightly coloured clothing?

It looks good covered in dirt :P

bosslady

29th May 2013, 19:54

It looks good covered in dirt :P

smart ass ;) still not sure if I should contact that guy about the bike either, slightly more than I wanna pay but it's an 08.......? dunno? any luck finding out how much a tow bar is? ;)

leathel

29th May 2013, 20:05

smart ass ;) still not sure if I should contact that guy about the bike either, slightly more than I wanna pay but it's an 08.......? dunno? any luck finding out how much a tow bar is? ;)

It comes down can you swing it dollar wise... later is better and it should be well serviced going by what I have been told, If you want to look at it I am sure something can be sorted, I have a Ute and so does Brian and it can be stored at my workshop if you aren't ready...... Tow bar I have new available for not much more than mentioned and the used requests close tomorrow so will know in the afternoon, you will have until the 20th of the following month to pay for that... if its ordered after the weekend that's 20th July :msn-wink:

bosslady

29th May 2013, 20:19

It comes down can you swing it dollar wise... later is better and it should be well serviced going by what I have been told, If you want to look at it I am sure something can be sorted, I have a Ute and so does Brian and it can be stored at my workshop if you aren't ready...... Tow bar I have new available for not much more than mentioned and the used requests close tomorrow so will know in the afternoon, you will have until the 20th of the following month to pay for that... if its ordered after the weekend that's 20th July :msn-wink:

ahhh very good! exciting! I assume you're talking about the tow bar 're. 20th Jul. lol. I'd like to at least have someone I know have a look at it but I definitely don't want to pay 3.5k...?

leathel

29th May 2013, 20:24

ahhh very good! exciting! I assume you're talking about the tow bar 're. 20th Jul. lol. I'd like to at least have someone I know have a look at it but I definitely don't want to pay 3.5k...?

No harm in looking and offering owner what you can .... I don't know the owner at all so I don't know what he will take

and yes I don't think they will want to charge up the bike to the 20th of the following month :lol:

bosslady

29th May 2013, 21:00

No harm in looking and offering owner what you can .... I don't know the owner at all so I don't know what he will take

and yes I don't think they will want to charge up the bike to the 20th of the following month :lol:

I'll send you an email tomorrow ;)

buffstar

30th May 2013, 11:48

seen this one?
http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dirt-bikes/auction-588929977.htm

bosslady

30th May 2013, 12:15

seen this one?
http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dirt-bikes/auction-588929977.htm
I have - what do you think by the look of it?

buffstar

30th May 2013, 13:30

its hard to tell from the photos as they are pretty shit quality - but the chain and sprocket looks good as does the plastics - but that dosnt tell you sweet f a about the rest of it. Pretty cheap and local. the guy/girl is up for people taking it for a test ride. I would definitely consider it worth a lookie, if only to see if you enjoy riding it. I don't know how knowledgeable you are about bikes, I would take a boy who knows his shit with me to have a look - all I know to look for is sprocket, chain, whether it has an obvious leak.... if theres obvious damage etc. lucky for me my partner knows the ins and outs. nothing to loose though by just making contact and checking it out, we scored an awesome 230 for my daughter once off a car dealer as he had no idea about dirtbikes & was asking only for the money it owed him (as a trade in I think) and not what it was actually worth......SCORE!!

bosslady

30th May 2013, 13:45

Maha

30th May 2013, 15:01

I don't have anyone I know really that would come and help me by looking at the bike :/ and i don't know jack!

Luckily I do, and you have met him, Hayden...http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/member.php/34169-haydes55
If you are serious, give him a yodel.

bosslady

30th May 2013, 15:22

Luckily I do, and you have met him, Hayden...http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/member.php/34169-haydes55
If you are serious, give him a yodel.
It's quite the hike coming from Hamilton to Albany to look at the bike, lol. Fortunately for me Leathel has kindly offered to have a gander!

leathel

30th May 2013, 22:59

Bike looks OK ..... probably worth a look :P

nzspokes

31st May 2013, 07:03

Get a bike then come and do this, http://www.silverbullet.co.nz/event.php?id=10360

Awesome fun, they have a great novice track system. It was one of my first rides.

bosslady

31st May 2013, 07:19

Get a bike then come and do this, http://www.silverbullet.co.nz/event.php?id=10360

Awesome fun, they have a great novice track system. It was one of my first rides.
I am actually free that weekend and should be paying for and picking up a bike this coming Tuesday evening *fingers crossed* although I do not have a tow bar yet and that sounds like that would be too hard/tiring for me. Also I haven't sorted any gear!

BoristheBiter

31st May 2013, 07:27

That bike does look like it is worth a look

Get a bike then come and do this, http://www.silverbullet.co.nz/event.php?id=10360

Awesome fun, they have a great novice track system. It was one of my first rides.

I'll see you there:niceone:

I am actually free that weekend and should be paying for and picking up a bike this coming Tuesday evening *fingers crossed* although I do not have a tow bar yet and that sounds like that would be too hard/tiring for me. Also I haven't sorted any gear!

You had better hurry up then:innocent:

nzspokes

31st May 2013, 07:59

I am actually free that weekend and should be paying for and picking up a bike this coming Tuesday evening *fingers crossed* although I do not have a tow bar yet and that sounds like that would be too hard/tiring for me. Also I haven't sorted any gear!

Its hard and you will get tired. But you only get this chance a few times a year to ride these trails and its worth it. So go shopping. I may be able to organize someone that knows what there doing to take you for a lap of the novice course and give you advice. That wont be me as im a novice also.

Im sure if you ask nicely someone will pick you up and take you up.

bosslady

31st May 2013, 11:50

Its hard and you will get tired. But you only get this chance a few times a year to ride these trails and its worth it. So go shopping. I may be able to organize someone that knows what there doing to take you for a lap of the novice course and give you advice. That wont be me as im a novice also.

Im sure if you ask nicely someone will pick you up and take you up.
I will have to see how I go getting some gear.

bosslady

1st June 2013, 19:07

when buying boots what are important features to look for?

Ocean1

1st June 2013, 19:27

when buying boots what are important features to look for?

Very difficult to assess, off the shelf. The biggest factor is positive opinion from previous buyers.

Apart from that make sure there's good insole reinforcement and that replacement straps, buckle parts and toe caps are available.

Boots, more than any other piece of kit are worth spending some time getting right. There's nothing worse than boots that don't work well, they can make what should be a good day into bloody torture.

Fly shorties take some time to beat into shape, but they're a damned sight cheaper than top shelf stuff and seem to have lasted OK so far.

nzspokes

1st June 2013, 19:27

when buying boots what are important features to look for?

They fit and match the rest of your gear. I bought bright white as they were on sale. Mates gave me shit untill they turned a dirty grey.

noobi

1st June 2013, 19:33

when buying boots what are important features to look for?

Fit primarily, as some run wider than others, the cheaper price point boots are all pretty comparable in terms of quality.
They will all feel stiff to start with, but you should know that from road riding.

The exception to the rule is the Gaerne GX1 at RRP of $350, I would put it above all boots in the same price bracket and even some above that.
The best of the best being the Sidi Crossfire, or Gaerne SG10 or SG12.

bosslady

1st June 2013, 20:04

Fit primarily, as some run wider than others, the cheaper price point boots are all pretty comparable in terms of quality.
They will all feel stiff to start with, but you should know that from road riding.

The exception to the rule is the Gaerne GX1 at RRP of $350, I would put it above all boots in the same price bracket and even some above that.
The best of the best being the Sidi Crossfire, or Gaerne SG10 or SG12.

I keep hearing Gaerne over and over again, must be good. Do you know much about alpinestars?

bosslady

1st June 2013, 20:08

also, is getting gear that matches the colours on your bike the done thing? try not to laugh or eye roll, I'm serious.

Madness

1st June 2013, 20:18

I tried, honest I tried :rolleyes:

pete-blen

1st June 2013, 20:23

The exception to the rule is the Gaerne GX1 at RRP of $350,

GX1 is a nice boot... prob would have bought them if they didn't
have a smoothish MX type sole & a wee bit stiff to start with..
so I bought Forma ADV boots.. grippy sole , soft/flexable enough to use
on the Trials bike as well...

bosslady

1st June 2013, 20:52

what's the part of your body that's more likely to get injured than any other? the feet and ankles maybe? I already have a bad right ankle that still gives me grief after twisting it 6 months ago, so I'd need a very supportive boot I think..

Ocean1

1st June 2013, 21:36

what's the part of your body that's more likely to get injured than any other?

Clavicle fracture is common. Knees, elbows, broken fingers, broken arms...

Best you just stay in bed.

bosslady

1st June 2013, 21:40

Best you just stay in bed. I might as well be dead if i just stayed in bed! although bedtime is calling soon! yawnnn

Was just trying to think what was best investing in after helmet and boots

noobi

1st June 2013, 22:04

I keep hearing Gaerne over and over again, must be good. Do you know much about alpinestars?

Yes, im currently using tech 8s.

The tech 3 being their entry level boot at a RRP of $400. It is a very sturdy boot, but very stiff. It has a bonded sole instead of the traditional stitched sole, imagine road boot sole v work boot. The buckles are also very stiff, but you'll never have them come undone whilst riding.
I think generally that Alpinestar are maybe more orientated towards mx than trail/enduro. Mostly due to the stiffness of their boots and bonded soles on most models they make. That doesn't make them bad as a trail boot, quite the opposite, they provide good protection and support, they're just stiff. If you can find a pair to try, its best you get an idea that way, than from opinions on the internet.

bosslady

2nd June 2013, 06:55

BoristheBiter

2nd June 2013, 09:49

thanks, appreciate it, I'll have to go try some boots next week. What can you tell me about insurance? stupid me only thought about it last night. Would I go to kiwibike my broker and they'd sort it? I guess you can only get it insured for third party fire and theft or something?

Pretty much. I have yet to find an insurance company that will insure for off road riding.

as for armour, At the start you will be going slow so boots, helmet, gloves (as everyone else has said). buy what you can afford and upgrade as old bits get worn. I have Gaerne boots that have lasted over 10 years so they would be my choice.
As you get faster the "get off's" will show you what you need next as it is all just as important (I should have got knee braces before armour).

bosslady

2nd June 2013, 09:53

good advice, thank you :)

gwynfryn

2nd June 2013, 11:11

also, is getting gear that matches the colours on your bike the done thing? try not to laugh or eye roll, I'm serious.
Yes everything has to match your bike and be fully colour and brand coordinated. They normally have scrutineers who check for this sort of thing and most riders will get advice from a stylist to save any potential embarrassment. Just think horse polo but on bikes.

bosslady

2nd June 2013, 13:14

Yes everything has to match your bike and be fully colour and brand coordinated. They normally have scrutineers who check for this sort of thing and most riders will get advice from a stylist to save any potential embarrassment. Just think horse polo but on bikes.

cool do you know of any good stylists?

nzspokes

2nd June 2013, 13:16

Dont forget to cover your bike with Monsta stickers. This is a must to be cool.

bosslady

2nd June 2013, 16:57

Dont forget to cover your bike with Monsta stickers. This is a must to be cool.

I don't drink the drink but you're right, that does appear to be the done thing.

I went to cycletreads today and talked to some guy called Neil, seemed very knowledgeable and I'm gonna try and do some research tonight on some of the things I looked at. He told me though that 4 strokes get very hot and any kinda pants I get will get holes burned through them? Funny guy, full of lots of his own personal horror stories, not put off yet though, lol.

tnarg

2nd June 2013, 17:09

Yeah get some proper pants. Exhaust burn hurt.

Also get some protection for your knees. Doesn't have to be to flash but you are going to fall off and your knees are the first thing the bike hits. Something like this will do.

http://www.torpedo7.co.nz/products/E6PRKN2OS/title/evs-option-knee-shin-guards---adult

next- Think about a camelbak or similar. You lose a lot of fluids riding and if you get stuck you will be glad you have one.

Next- Tool. Have a basic supply of tool and take them with you when you go riding. Things break, bend when you crash.

Another tip for young players- put plumbers tape under your brake and clutch perches and don't do them up super tight. When you come off they will turn on the bars instead of breaking. Riding back with no clutch lever can be interesting.

Any way hope this helps. Get a bike and have some fun.

leathel

2nd June 2013, 17:13

The only burn hole I had was when I was clowning around doing power slides a got it wrong...leg ended up jammed between the rear wheel and muffler.... Nice we burn on my leg after that...

bosslady

2nd June 2013, 17:20

thanks, that's very helpful. I pick up my bike tomorrow evening :)

DJSin

2nd June 2013, 17:31

Exciting that you've got a new bike. I'd love to get a dirt bike. Can't wait to hear about all your new adventures.

Ocean1

2nd June 2013, 17:43

thanks, that's very helpful. I pick up my bike tomorrow evening :)

Nice. CRF230 wasn't it?

Beware of gorse bushes.

BoristheBiter

2nd June 2013, 17:48

Another tip for young players- put plumbers tape under your brake and clutch perches and don't do them up super tight. When you come off they will turn on the bars instead of breaking. Riding back with no clutch lever can be interesting.

That's why they invented barkbusters.

BoristheBiter

2nd June 2013, 17:53

Dont forget to cover your bike with Monsta stickers. This is a must to be cool.

Monsta or Redbull or if you are a bit weird Rockstar but atleast one.
As long as you don't have two on, that's a big style faux pas, a bit like waving at harley's.

bosslady

2nd June 2013, 18:09

Exciting that you've got a new bike. I'd love to get a dirt bike. Can't wait to hear about all your new adventures.
Hey you!! maybe I need to start blogging my adventures and I could take the go pro out too haha

Nice. CRF230 wasn't it?

Beware of gorse bushes.Yes that's the one crf230f

That's why they invented barkbusters.Lucky, the bike has some!

BoristheBiter

2nd June 2013, 20:53

Hey you!! maybe I need to start blogging my adventures and I could take the go pro out too haha
Yes that's the one crf230f

Lucky, the bike has some!

Cool.

when you get the bike make sure that they point slightly down (along with the levers). if they are to high there is a chance your hands can get caught when you have an off or crash (a crash on dirt is when you break you or the bike otherwise it's just an off) just so you know:cool:

bosslady

2nd June 2013, 21:13

Cool.

when you get the bike make sure that they point slightly down (along with the levers). if they are to high there is a chance your hands can get caught when you have an off or crash (a crash on dirt is when you break you or the bike otherwise it's just an off) just so you know:cool:

I'm not entirely sure what you mean, maybe I can take a pic when I get it and you can tell me?

nzspokes

2nd June 2013, 21:28

Cool.

when you get the bike make sure that they point slightly down (along with the levers). if they are to high there is a chance your hands can get caught when you have an off or crash (a crash on dirt is when you break you or the bike otherwise it's just an off) just so you know:cool:

Shit those Barkbusters can take a hit. I reamed a tree with them last weekend and they are fine. The tree felt a little violated.

Yes I have them mounted that way also.

pete-blen

2nd June 2013, 21:29

thanks, that's very helpful. I pick up my bike tomorrow evening :)

WOW..That was quick....:clap:

bosslady

2nd June 2013, 21:47

WOW..That was quick....:clap:

Yes. Tomorrow's thread is "so I just crashed my dirt bike".

Just joking.... I hope....

leathel

2nd June 2013, 21:56

The Bark Busters are pointing about the right angle from memory, Has Renthal bars as well :)

nzspokes

2nd June 2013, 21:57

Yes. Tomorrow's thread is "so I just crashed my dirt bike".

Just joking.... I hope....

It is customary to crash your dirt bike at least once a ride. I have been sticking with this tradition.

But no worry you just pick em up and ride away.

nzspokes

2nd June 2013, 22:02

You will learn new words like "roost" and "spooge".

Spooge is more for us 2 stroke riders, we squirt blue smoke at you 4 stroke riders in order to feel more important and pure.

Then the thing gets up on the pipe and we fly into a tree.

bosslady

2nd June 2013, 22:20

The Bark Busters are pointing about the right angle from memory, Has Renthal bars as well :)what's renthal bars?

It is customary to crash your dirt bike at least once a ride. I have been sticking with this tradition.

But no worry you just pick em up and ride away.apparently that's an off, not a crash? lol

leathel

2nd June 2013, 22:31

what's renthal bars?

l

Quality after market bars..

Gremlin

3rd June 2013, 01:01

Then the thing gets up on the pipe and we fly into a tree.
I now have mental images of riders suddenly flying off the trail into the nearest obstacle. :clap:

BoristheBiter

3rd June 2013, 01:14

apparently that's an off, not a crash? lol

See you're learning already:niceone:

BoristheBiter

3rd June 2013, 09:36

I'm not entirely sure what you mean, maybe I can take a pic when I get it and you can tell me?

http://monkeyskin.com/junk/BMW/kaoko_barkbuster_angle.jpg

Barkbusters are level with the ground.

http://www.motorradgarage.com.au/image/cache/data/SW-Motech/Handguards/hpr_00_133_10400__b_101332855916-13067-223x223.jpg

Barkbusters pointing sightly down.

But leathel said they are fine so no worry's.

Sorry mods don't know how to thumbnail pics

bosslady

3rd June 2013, 09:44

ahh thanks. Not long till I pick the bike up now... going to look boots again today. Not sure what to do about helmets though... cycletreads had some for 80 down from 100 this weekend...

Ocean1

3rd June 2013, 09:45

I now have mental images of riders suddenly flying off the trail into the nearest obstacle. :clap:

So, you've never owned a dirt bike?

Kickaha

3rd June 2013, 09:59

It is customary to crash your dirt bike at least once a ride.

Only once? crap sounds like I'm overdoing it a bit then

tnarg

3rd June 2013, 11:43

That's why they invented barkbusters.

My tip was for those that don't use bark busters. I was never a fan of them.

bosslady

3rd June 2013, 12:07

Just picked up my gear got most things except for armour. Helmet, goggles, gloves, jersey, pants, boots, about $540. Feel sick spending all this money, lol.

Gremlin

3rd June 2013, 12:58

So, you've never owned a dirt bike?
Nope... I own a dirty bike, but the sight of mud/sand and it's penchant for being a pig is noticeable when it rolls over. :pinch:

leathel

3rd June 2013, 13:15

Just picked up my gear got most things except for armour. Helmet, goggles, gloves, jersey, pants, boots, about $540. Feel sick spending all this money, lol.

Yes it a hit on the money side of things but its gear you fit first up....unlike trying to get cheaper stuff of TM and the likes and you spend money....but you are not happy so you spend more....then you end up spending the same and still might not be happy :rolleyes:

This way you have gear that fits ....:niceone:

And its only money, the fun you can have far outweighs the money spent, you can't put a price on enjoying life!

The older you get the more you realize this :msn-wink:

you work to live not live to work.... I still struggle with this concept as I work far to much....:rolleyes:

bosslady

3rd June 2013, 14:31

my flatmate keeps having a go at me for how much I've spent!

sketch

3rd June 2013, 15:07

fox from end to end you must be rich!!!!!!!!! all my gear is thor, tis not bad and costs peanuts, spec when torpedo is having a sale

bosslady

3rd June 2013, 15:13

fox from end to end you must be rich!!!!!!!!! all my gear is thor, tis not bad and costs peanuts, spec when torpedo is having a sale

rich? try stupid. Cycletreads had a sale. Only the pants ($119.95), jersey ($30) and gloves ($40) are Fox. Goggles ($40) are Scott, Helmet ($120) is LS2 and boots are Axo Prime ($190).

leathel

3rd June 2013, 15:47

rich? try stupid. Cycletreads had a sale. Only the pants ($119.95), jersey ($30) and gloves ($40) are Fox. Goggles ($40) are Scott, Helmet ($120) is LS2 and boots are Axo Prime ($190).

That's not silly money for what you got..... buying it all at once hurts, But at least you are ready to ride :)

Not much dearer than thor on special for the gear set

http://www.mrmotorcycles.co.nz/dirt-bike-gear/gear-sets/thor-1-2/thor-2013-phase-splatter-pants-shirt-jersey-combo

You can get helmet and boots cheaper but Helmet has to be comfortable ... Boots have to suit

BoristheBiter

3rd June 2013, 15:59

Only once? crap sounds like I'm overdoing it a bit then

My thoughts exactly.

My tip was for those that don't use bark busters. I was never a fan of them.

I'm not a fan of breaking levers so do, but I get your point, everyone has their own style and long may that continue.

bosslady

3rd June 2013, 16:02

That's not silly money for what you got..... buying it all at once hurts, But at least you are ready to ride :)

Not much dearer than thor on special for the gear set

http://www.mrmotorcycles.co.nz/dirt-bike-gear/gear-sets/thor-1-2/thor-2013-phase-splatter-pants-shirt-jersey-combo

You can get helmet and boots cheaper but Helmet has to be comfortable ... Boots have to suit

Yea like $25 more dear, I did get slightly better gloves then the ones that actually matched my jersey and pants. The boots seem pretty decent very solid. I didn't end up getting the cheapest helmet cause it was really uncomfortable on my forehead :)

bosslady

3rd June 2013, 19:14

damn they gave me the size 28 pants instead of 30, bugger!

bosslady

4th June 2013, 18:29

jersey in or out? excuse the fat post dinner tummy!

leathel

4th June 2013, 18:38

jersey in or out? excuse the fat post dinner tummy!

Oooh dear a fashion site now :P

In.... saves shit going up yah back when you get roostered etc

You got the bike at home now?

sketch

4th June 2013, 18:47

Out you end up covered in mud either way hehe pletty slick there bosslady
Your set up looks pretty simalar to mine

BoristheBiter

4th June 2013, 18:52

jersey in or out? excuse the fat post dinner tummy!

It depends, are you over 60?

sketch

4th June 2013, 18:54

It depends, are you over 60?

Oh no you di'int.....

BoristheBiter

4th June 2013, 18:55

Oh no you di'int.....

:killingme:killingme yes I did.

bosslady

4th June 2013, 19:05

Oooh dear a fashion site now :P

In.... saves shit going up yah back when you get roostered etc

You got the bike at home now?Sure do! is there anything I should do before I go out in the weekend? the tyres are still flat, how much air should they have?

Out you end up covered in mud either way hehe pletty slick there bosslady
Your set up looks pretty simalar to mine
I thought in looked cooler?

It depends, are you over 60? As above. And... maybe? you never know? I thought maybe when I get body armour and put it over the top I might not look like so much of a geek!

BoristheBiter

4th June 2013, 19:10

Sure do! is there anything I should do before I go out in the weekend? the tyres are still flat, how much air should they have?

About 12psi is what I run in woodhill.

leathel

4th June 2013, 19:25

Tyre pressure depends on what you are riding on....

Sand/mud 12psi front and 10psi rear is what I used to run (even lower in the rear with Heavy duty tubes and rim locks)...

but 12 in both is fine to start with, less chance of slipping on the bead

Firmer ground 13 rear but usually leave the front around 12psi unless trying to quarter a lot of cattle ruts, tree sticks and I may drop the front to aid traction.... hardly ever did ...

bosslady

4th June 2013, 19:27

About 12psi is what I run in woodhill.

wow quite different to road tyres, why's that?

bosslady

4th June 2013, 19:28

leathel

4th June 2013, 19:30

wow quite different to road tyres, why's that?

you want some give in the tyre to keep contact with the ground as much as possible for traction...

Same with 4x4 .... 10 psi drop was like 45% more surface area touching or something like that.

BoristheBiter

4th June 2013, 20:28

you want some give in the tyre to keep contact with the ground as much as possible for traction...

Same with 4x4 .... 10 psi drop was like 45% more surface area touching or something like that.

We would take the valve out until it would start to whistle, around 16psi (at woodhill)

motor_mayhem

5th June 2013, 13:08

To spin you a brief yarn about neck braces before you go buying one, I bought a Leatt thinking they're generally reported to the best however once I got some rider coaching, it was pointed out that the brace was probably hindering me more than helping because it was stopping me being able to tilt my head far enough to see properly. Consequently I haven't worn it since.

P.S. Your Fox retro gear is awesome

BoristheBiter

5th June 2013, 14:04

sketch

5th June 2013, 15:22

Only need a neck brace if your planning on being upside down. When I did my no hander seat grab I landed on my head /shoulder and neck was swwwt. Shoulder not so much but the 6 weeks off work was awesome

Ocean1

5th June 2013, 20:10

P.S. Your Fox retro gear is awesome

Whadayamean retro?

Looks cutting edge to me.

Crisis management

5th June 2013, 20:34

ta, 12 it is then!

12 will do (I will run anything from 4 to 12 in sand) but at this stage the best thing you can do is make sure the bike runs and is full of gas and you are well fed and hydrated for sunday. To me that means no booze the day before, a decent meal the night before, start drinking water as soon as you get up and keep doing it until you go to bed sunday night, eat decent food (bananas and muesli bars in my case), small amounts regularly. You need to be in good shape to enjoy the riding.
Don't worry about the riding, it's fun, you will make an arse of yourself (if you need lessons watch me) and you will have a great day, the forecast looks a bit showery so make sure you can keep warm (polyprop top under riding gear) and just take your time, do stuff, rest, do more stuff, it's simple.
If you are getting advice from someone there, don't try and learn it all in one day, do one or two new things and leave it at that, you will find it tiring so don't try and learn too much in one bite.

Have fun, if I see you there I will say hello.

bosslady

5th June 2013, 20:48

12 will do (I will run anything from 4 to 12 in sand) but at this stage the best thing you can do is make sure the bike runs and is full of gas and you are well fed and hydrated for sunday. To me that means no booze the day before, a decent meal the night before, start drinking water as soon as you get up and keep doing it until you go to bed sunday night, eat decent food (bananas and muesli bars in my case), small amounts regularly. You need to be in good shape to enjoy the riding.
Don't worry about the riding, it's fun, you will make an arse of yourself (if you need lessons watch me) and you will have a great day, the forecast looks a bit showery so make sure you can keep warm (polyprop top under riding gear) and just take your time, do stuff, rest, do more stuff, it's simple.
If you are getting advice from someone there, don't try and learn it all in one day, do one or two new things and leave it at that, you will find it tiring so don't try and learn too much in one bite.

Have fun, if I see you there I will say hello.

Oops sorry I won't be there on Sunday but I will be at woodhill on Saturday as some one has kindly offered to help me and also transport my bike which is super! I have a road bike lesson on Sunday and I'm going for a road bike ride with a friend. Need to sharpen my skills as I gotta get my restricted! That's great advice too thanks btw. Curious, I didn't bother to look but is there a loo at woodhill?

nzspokes

5th June 2013, 20:54

Curious, I didn't bother to look but is there a loo at woodhill?

Trees. Lots of trees.

bosslady

5th June 2013, 20:56

More questions, what non flammable liquid can i clean the air filter with? where do i get sae 80 90 oil from and how much should i get? also grease? for the sealing surface? what grease? TIA!

bosslady

5th June 2013, 20:58

Trees. Lots of trees.

Serious? That's it, I'm selling the bike!

Really though I'm not going to go wees behind a tree and us girls need to use loo paper, gross but true. I better start doing some pelvic muscle exercises!

Tony.OK

5th June 2013, 21:12

More questions, what non flammable liquid can i clean the air filter with? where do i get sae 80 90 oil from and how much should i get? also grease? for the sealing surface? what grease? TIA!

I was told by a mechanic that has spannered for international riders just to wash in petrol to remove oil, squeeze then wash in hot water with detergent a couple of times then rinse well with cold, squeeze as much water out as possible then oil. The oil expels the water.
Works well! No probs with filters as yet.

Ocean1

5th June 2013, 21:32

Works well! No probs with filters as yet.

Pretty much my routine. Squeeze it, don't wring it.

Oil: any large gas station.

Grease: Buy a grease gun and a cartridge of water resistant grease to suit from any engineering / mechanical supply shop.

Edit: Ask the shop to load the grease gun. Watch.

nzspokes

5th June 2013, 21:55

Serious? That's it, I'm selling the bike!

Really though I'm not going to go wees behind a tree and us girls need to use loo paper, gross but true. I better start doing some pelvic muscle exercises!

There is a dunny there. But once youve seen it trees will seem a better option. Mind you its better than the one at Thundercross Park.

You really think you will be road riding the next day?

bosslady

5th June 2013, 22:06

There is a dunny there. But once youve seen it trees will seem a better option. Mind you its better than the one at Thundercross Park.

You really think you will be road riding the next day?

Absolutely, unless I hurt myself. I'm stubborn like that. Will get a sweet sleep in on Sunday anyway.

bosslady

5th June 2013, 22:08

Pretty much my routine. Squeeze it, don't wring it.

Oil: any large gas station.

Grease: Buy a grease gun and a cartridge of water resistant grease to suit from any engineering / mechanical supply shop.

Edit: Ask the shop to load the grease gun. Watch.

Manual say no use petrol or me get a exploooosion!

noobi

5th June 2013, 22:24

Manual say no use petrol or me get a exploooosion!

You dont clean the filter while its on the bike, or while the bike is running, or while its on the running bike.
Just dont be dumb while having buckets of petrol lying around and you'll be fine.

You can use d - limonene based products to clean dirty filters if you really dont want to use petrol. Petrol is cheaper and easier to find though.

BoristheBiter

5th June 2013, 22:50

Manual say no use petrol or me get a exploooosion!

I use "no toil" filter oil.

http://notoil.com/products/classic-air-filter-oil-large-and.html

get it from Cycle treads, use water to wash out.

motor_mayhem

5th June 2013, 22:56

I use "no toil" filter oil.

http://notoil.com/products/classic-air-filter-oil-large-and.html

get it from Cycle treads, use water to wash out.

Was just about to suggest that, its what I use as well. A few here have said they don't like it as they think it's not sticky enough but I was unfortunate enough to have a bottle tip over in the boot of my car and it took ages to get out and the tray has never really been the same since :crybaby:

BoristheBiter

6th June 2013, 07:28

Was just about to suggest that, its what I use as well. A few here have said they don't like it as they think it's not sticky enough but I was unfortunate enough to have a bottle tip over in the boot of my car and it took ages to get out and the tray has never really been the same since :crybaby:

I just think it is so easy to use, easy to put on, easy to clean and it is more than capable as after tussock Buster my air box(or what KTM thinks is an air box) was completely full of dust (open the cover and dirt fell out) and nothing had got through.

Ocean1

6th June 2013, 07:50

Manual say no use petrol or me get a exploooosion!

If you haven't learned to read around the OSH bullshit in every manual nowadays then this'll be your first lesson.

I use "no toil" filter oil.

http://notoil.com/products/classic-air-filter-oil-large-and.html

get it from Cycle treads, use water to wash out.

You can do that. I don't like the idea of using water soluble stuff in my filters. Maybe you don't ride when it's wet.

Crisis management

6th June 2013, 08:56

You can do that. I don't like the idea of using water soluble stuff in my filters. Maybe you don't ride when it's wet.

Requires a detergent additive to release the "oil" so no problem getting the filter wet, actually if I have wet the filter, the least of my worries is whether there is any filter oil left in it. I like No Toil as it's easy on me (no petrol) and the filter elements last longer (quite a few of them carry warnings about petrol breaking down the glue that holds the filter together).

Bosslady, enjoy The Sandpit, it's a great venue and lots of different trails, should keep you entertained for days! If you enjoy it, have a look at getting some training there from Tony (endless dirtbiking) you will learn a lot and it will make your transition to off road a lot easier.